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Politics & World • Royalty

Princess Haya bint Hussein

Princess Haya bint Hussein is a Jordanian princess, equestrian, and humanitarian figure.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Princess Haya bint Hussein is a Jordanian princess, equestrian, and humanitarian figure. She is the daughter of King Hussein of Jordan and Queen Alia, and the half-sister of King Abdullah II. She later became widely known for her marriage to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and her work with international and charitable organisations.

Early life and family

Princess Haya was born in Amman in 1974 to King Hussein of Jordan and Queen Alia. She is a member of the Jordanian Hashemite royal family and is the half-sister of King Abdullah II.

Equestrian career

She represented Jordan in international equestrian competition, becoming one of the country’s best-known athletes. She was the first female to represent Jordan internationally in equestrian sport. She served two terms as president of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), from 2006 to 2014.

Marriage and public profile

In 2004 she married Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of Dubai. Their later separation and related court proceedings in London made her a subject of major international media coverage.

Humanitarian and organisational work

Princess Haya has been involved in humanitarian initiatives, including founding Tikyet Um Ali, a Jordanian anti-hunger charity. She was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace.

Key facts

  • Princess Haya was born in Amman in 1974 as a member of Jordan’s Hashemite royal family.
  • She is the daughter of King Hussein and Queen Alia, and the half-sister of King Abdullah II.
  • She represented Jordan in international equestrian competition and served as president of the FEI from 2006 to 2014.
  • She married Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2004 and later separated from him; their legal dispute drew international attention.
  • She has been involved in humanitarian work, including founding Tikyet Um Ali and serving as a UN Messenger of Peace.
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Canadian context

Princess Haya has no major direct Canadian connection in the sources provided, but she is of interest to Canadian readers because of her international royal profile, UN role, and widely reported legal dispute in London.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Princess Haya bint Hussein?
She is a Jordanian princess, equestrian, and humanitarian known for her royal background, sporting career, and marriage to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
When was Princess Haya born?
She was born on 3 May 1974 in Amman, Jordan.
Who are Princess Haya’s parents?
Her parents were King Hussein of Jordan and Queen Alia.
What is Princess Haya known for in sports?
She competed in international equestrian events for Jordan and later served as president of the FEI.
Was Princess Haya married to Dubai’s ruler?
Yes. She married Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2004, and later separated from him.
Does Princess Haya have a humanitarian role?
Yes. She has been linked to charitable work in Jordan and was named a UN Messenger of Peace.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Haya_bint_Hussein
    Supports: Birth date, parentage, and family relationship to King Abdullah II
  2. Wikipedia — https://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haya_bint_Hussein
    Supports: Jordanian princess identity, equestrian career, FEI leadership, marriage, and studies
  3. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-48851388
    Supports: Marriage to Sheikh Mohammed, departure from Dubai, and London legal proceedings
  4. United Nations — https://www.un.org/en/messengers-peace/hrh-princess-haya
    Supports: Messenger of Peace role and humanitarian work including Tikyet Um Ali
  5. Horse Magazine — https://www.horsemagazine.com/thm/whos-who/bint-al-hussein-princess-haya/
    Supports: Equestrian career, first female Jordanian international showjumper, FEI presidency
  6. Reuters — https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/princess-haya-mourns-inspiration-queen-elizabeth-2022-09-16/
    Supports: Public profile in the UK and family ties to the British royal family